Despite their own efforts to cope with a bereavement some people may find that they need additional support from someone, possibly, from outside their immediate family.
Bereaved children, for example, need specialist help in accepting and coping with their loss. They may experience uncharacteristic behaviours which are often difficult for others to deal with and therefore need specific support in coping with their loss. Telling them, for example, that a loved one has’ gone to sleep’ may lead them to think that other loved ones will also die if they fall asleep so careful handling of the situation is vital. Details of organisations that may be able to offer help will be available from local GP’s.
There are many different organizations that are now available which can be considered, some of which are listed below:
Bereavement counselling
Bereavement Counsellors are trained to help the bereaved to understand their grief and cope with their loss. There are major providers of this service who often employ volunteers who they then train to offer the counselling service. They are, however, unable to deal with psychological difficulties that many have developed.
The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
This organisation can provide details of other types of counselling available which may support the bereaved. A GP will be able to provide details or these or they can be found by contacting the BACP direct.
The Child Bereavement Network
Where a child has died the Child Bereavement Network can offer counselling to parents, grandparents, and any surviving siblings, and help them to accept and cope with their loss.
Community mental health workers
They provide support to people who are suffering significantly from their loss and who are finding it difficult to cope with everyday life. They can assess the situation and determine if professional help is required.